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GE Food and the New Legislation Session by Elizabeth Ferry posted 1.08.01 Since the introduction of Terminator technology, with its ability to genetically program seeds to be sterile, members of the Vermont and New Hampshire legislatures have presented laws to limit the spread of genetically engineered (GE) seeds and foods in the two states. January 2001 will see the opening of a new legislative session, both locally and nationally. GE issues are sure to be on the agenda. The Co-op Education Department seeks to keep its members informed of new legislation on a variety of food-related topics. The consumer’s right-to-know, food safety, and issues in food production — including the national organic standards and genetically engineered food — are among the issues that we try to track. Often it is difficult to effectively communicate with members about pending legislation. When proposed legislation reaches a critical stage, there is often only a short period of time in which to act. Consumers and educators, who may have spent weeks or months waiting for the bill to come to a vote, suddenly find themselves racing to voice their opinions in the face of a fast-approaching deadline. The Internet is an unparalleled source for the quick dissemination of time-sensitive information, such as legislation. And the first few months of the year are a good time for concerned consumers to inform themselves on issues that may come up quickly for political action. Various websites may be useful to those of you who want to stay informed of developments in GE legislation and education. Both the Vermont and the New Hampshire legislatures have web sites that offer information about all pending and passed legislation on this and all other topics. The Vermont address is: www.leg.state.vt.us. In New Hampshire, search for www.leg.state.nh.us.